Marshall amp kit suggestion?

[Gr8tfulEd]

Looking at Marshall style amp kits on the web, and I've come across Weber (naturally), and a company called Metropoulos Aplification (http://metroamp.com/). Anyone have any experience or opinion on these kits, and/or a recommendation?

Thanks!

[Gr8tfulEd]

Hmm. I just noticed that Weber kits don't seem to come with step by step instructions. That would probably rule that out for me. Any other suggestions? I'm looking for a build of a JTM45, a Bluesbreaker, or a 1962.
Thanks!

[DrewB]

Don't forget Ceriatone! Nik is extremely conscious of parts and build quality. If he were to wire up your amp, you would be blown away by how artfully done it would be. I had him wire up my 18 watt because my time was worth more than the $60 he charged to do it. Soundwise, it's excellent. I didn't know if I wanted to go with Ceriatone or not, but the extremely-positive comments at 18watt.com sold me.

http://www.ceriatone.com

[marshman]

Yeah, as you noted, the Weber kits come with almost NO help regarding construction/assembly, though apparently his groupie forum is pretty helpful. He's also rumored to use the least expensive parts he can get his hands on, but so did Leo, and he did OK.


If you're sure you want a "BIG" Marshall, I've always heard that Metro was the way to go (at least if you're looking for a kit...there are tons of guys doing clones, but that's another story). Ceriatone gets high marks in the value/tone stakes, and for 18 watters, GDS gets the 'best replica' nod.

Late, but I guess we'd be remiss if we didn't at least mention MOJO http://www.mojomusicalsupply.com/products.asp?id=44991

Happy hunting!

[Wayne Alexander]

Metro makes very accurate kits, with comprehensive instructions (on a DVD, with lots of photos and diagrams), and uses first rate switches, pots, resistors, caps and transformers. If you build a Metro JTM45 you'll have the sound of the mid-1960's ones in a new amp. I'm not aware of any higher grade, better supported kits for mid-60's "big" Marshalls (JM45, 50 Watt, 100 Watt). Weber kits are not for builders who need instructions, and come with "good enough" parts, transformers, etc. but not the first rate stuff. Weber kits are best for people who have built a number of amps, know what parts can do with upgrades, and know a bunch of ampbuilding tricks like how to route wires, what to do if the schematic or layout is wrong, or if the holes in the chassis are in the wrong places.

[11 Gauge]

Originally Posted by DrewB

Don't forget Ceriatone! Nik is extremely conscious of parts and build quality. If he were to wire up your amp, you would be blown away by how artfully done it would be. I had him wire up my 18 watt because my time was worth more than the $60 he charged to do it. Soundwise, it's excellent. I didn't know if I wanted to go with Ceriatone or not, but the extremely-positive comments at 18watt.com sold me.

http://www.ceriatone.com

+1.

You can typically get something at least partially assembled from Nik for what others charge unassembled, and the craftsmanship is great. I'm really satisfied with Nik's choice of components for his Marshall clones. That said, with the money that you save, you could always put it into an output transformer upgrade or similar, down the road.

If you don't have an acute addiction to original JTM45's (i.e. haven't played or owned many or any of them), the more affordable clones will probably more than suffice.

Whatever route you go, get a good pair of KT66's - it's a must for this amp!

[tazzboy]

Metro amps are suppose to be getting some reviews in the next Vintage Guitar Issue.

In Fact George does have youtube.com that has clips of his amps
http://www.youtube.com/user/metroampcom

[Gr8tfulEd]

Thank you all for the very helpful information!

[T_red7882]

http://store.marshamps.com/index.php?cPath=21

marsh amps are fantastic. step by step instructions, email support, phone support, great product.

[Roe]

for accuracy metro is best. for low costs, weber or ceriatone are both good

[Pickalittle]

I cannot imagine a better amp kit than Metroamps. I built one of their JTM-45's and it is takes me to tonal heaven. quet too!